2020 - Natalee Riggins: ECC surpassed my expectations

When I was a junior in high school, I was one of six students in my class to be given the opportunity to participate in the Dual Credit Program at Elgin Community College. Being accepted felt surreal. I was excited for all that I was going to learn, yet nervous that I wouldn’t be able to keep up academically.

My experience at ECC surpassed my expectations and allayed my fears. My professors were supportive of me and gave me a picture of what a college education is supposed to be. I am especially grateful for Professor Catherine Moushon, the faculty advisor for Spartan Christian Fellowship. In every interaction, Professor Moushon was always kind to me and made me feel welcome. She truly cares about the whole student, and genuinely wants to invest in students’ lives.

At ECC, I never felt like “that high schooler,” younger and therefore less capable. Getting involved on campus helped, and I was honored to serve as President of the Spartan Christian Fellowship. My advice for other students is to never underestimate yourself. I almost didn’t apply to the program because I thought I wouldn’t succeed. Now, as I am getting ready to graduate from college—the day before high school graduation—I know that my concerns were unwarranted. Without my experience at ECC, I wouldn’t be the person I am today.

Natalee Riggins ‘20
Associate of Arts
Sleepy Hollow, IL